Can't Let Go

The Callaways #13

by Barbara Freethy

Talented graphic artist and animator Annie Callaway has been commissioned by a Hollywood studio to create the next superhero blockbuster movie, but a bout of creative block has Annie searching the Southern California beach scene for inspiration. A local Irish bar in an old train depot, run by the ruggedly attractive and somewhat mysterious Griffin Hale, piques her interest, and she finds herself weaving fantasies about not only Griffin but also the quirky characters who work there.

The last thing Griffin Hale needs at his bar is a nosy artist looking for personal stories to turn into movie plots. He has carefully cultivated a scene of complete normalcy for people who need it more than Annie could possibly imagine, and it's his job to protect them. But the beautiful redhead with the compelling green eyes is difficult to turn away. Annie's fantasy world where good always conquers evil is not the life that Griffin has lived, and he can't help but think she'll never be satisfied with anyone less than a superhero.

After a string of bad relationships, Annie willingly admits that most real men don't live up to her muscle-bound, cape-wearing protectors of the world, but when her stubborn curiosity propels her into a danger she never expected, she begins to realize that some heroes work in the dark…and a man who fights for you is a man worth fighting for.

While Griffin is determined to keep Annie alive, he's not at all convinced he can give her the happily-ever-after she's looking for. But then some stories take an unexpected turn…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense

ebook

First published December 26, 2017

About the author

Barbara's love of writing developed out of a love of reading. Growing up in an all-boy neighborhood, she spent quite a bit of time reading through her mother's large library, many of which were romantic novels. After graduating from the University of California at Santa Barbara, she went into Public Relations, but soon discovered that writing was her true passion.

Barbara was traditionally published for many years, then formed her own publishing company FOG CITY PUBLISHING in 2011 and has since sold over 10 million books! She has published 75 novels ranging from mystery thrillers to romantic suspense and contemporary romance.

Her book SUMMER SECRETS was a #1 New York Times bestseller! And twenty-five other novels have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists. She is currently writing two ongoing series, a contemporary romance series set in Whisper Lake and a romantic suspense series: Off The Grid: FBI Series. She is also known for her bestselling Callaway Family Series, which offers up fourteen books and two novellas.

When Barbara isn't writing or publishing, which isn't very often these days, she is playing tennis, hanging out with friends and family in beautiful Lake Tahoe or reading books!

For a complete list of her books, visit her website!

Reviews

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the first Barbara Freethy book I've read in years. I remember enjoying her previous work, but unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this book. The story dragged for me, and never really succeeded at capturing my interest. I liked Griffin, the hero, well enough. He was a bit of a martyr, but his reasons were fairly sound. I didn't care much for the heroine, Annie. I honestly felt the author was trying too hard to make her character into something she wasn't--the phrase, 'trouble follows her' was used several times, but was never convincing. The examples given were just normal life events, nothing out of the ordinary. Annie was nosy to a point of being obnoxious. She was an artist who had worked in the film industry as an animator. Currently unemployed and interviewing for a position as an animator/artist, the circumstances around her interview process was so unlikely and unrealistic, but necessary to further the plot and set up the conflict. Speaking of the conflict--I found it trivial and contrived. Any conflict that relies on unbelievable plot points, and still manages to be trivial and easily resolved can ruin an entire book, for me. The suspense aspect of this story was silly, far-fetched, and again, too easily resolved. I won't spoil it, but the circumstances and details were too unbelievable and improbable for me.As much as I hate to use this word, I found the ending to be a little hokey.

I do enjoy romantic suspense when its well-written, tightly plotted, and suspenseful, but this one just didn't work for me.

[Cinthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara mix romance with mystery in the right measure.

Annie is a Callaway but not a firefighter or a cop or even a brave one, so she thinks. After a few months of suffering, when she lost her job and confidence in some people, she will spend some time in San Clemente, hoping to return with her inspiration before the dream job interview.

Annie finds inspiration and some mysterious problems since being rescued from a shark attack by the mysterious hot surfer Griffin Hale.

Griffin has a whole mysterious aura, an amazing bar with so many interesting 'characters' that Annie loves, and the more they talk or tease, the closer they get.

One more favorite Callaway book! <3

[Mari · Rating 4 out of 5]

While Barbara Freethy isn't a new to me author this series is. This is one of those huge family series but is easy to get into works well as standalone. Everything is elaborated on and you get the dynamic easily. Which is what I enjoy and having the background revealed. The Callaway's seem like an interesting bunch I will have to get to know later on since this is already the fifth book.

Annie is nothing short of exuberant, she cares a lot and has a insatiable curiosity. It can come off nosy and prying I get that especially to Griffin who seems closed off. He may not like to talk much and seem gruff but he certainly is a good guy always helping out he hates the spotlight being recognized but he deserves it. While Griffin may have hard edged vibe that Annie can't read the attraction on both can't be denied. I actually enjoyed the sparring and banter they get into. They are opposites in character but somehow have that sparks of connection.

I like the very unusual and a bit crazy meet cute leaves a lasting impression. With everything going on in terms of the mysterious ways of Griffin and his bar a relationship with Annie is not the best thing. The undeniable feelings they draw from one another is something else. More like the danger pushed them closer together and when they stuck it out together it gets better.

I enjoyed the cast of characters in Can't let you Go the plot had a good mix of romance some mystery with suspense. along with the holiday season background. It was tamer on the steam but that's perfectly fine with me, it still had the passion and tenderness shown. Annie and Griffin were fun personalities with their differences and that made it more intriguing to keep going. It all tied up well and made sense which is always great. Now to catch up on the series and there is a lot more! Look forward to the next one as well. This is a very colorful family to get to know.


** ARC provided for an honest review **

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

See the full review at HarlequinJunkie.com

A few surprising plot twists. Some sweet romance. A bit of a Christmas theme. One curious heroine and a grumbly, brave hero. Can’t Let Go was filled with lots of the charm and flowing dialogue I’ve come to expect from Barbara Freethy over the years.

While I’ve read several of Barbara Freethy’s books before, this is my first experience with any of the Callaway clan. (I know!!) And I can see why there are diehard fans out there clamoring for more. Annie Callaway was pretty unique. She was an artist and a people person, kind of a do-gooder. It was her nosiness that made me both laugh and shake my head because you could just see it getting her in trouble somehow. And it definitely did when it came to Griffin. Read More

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annie is the Callaway underdog. She wants to be brave, but doesn't know how. Griffin is a man of mystery with a chip on his shoulder, a nose for trouble and the skills to back it up. A string of coincidences brings these lonely hearts together. Will an abundance of secrets tear them apart? The beauty of the Callaways is, their a group of ordinary people who end up in extraordinary situations. Through the danger and self - doubt, Annie and Griffin manage to paint something beautiful. They just need to find the strength to make it stick. Can't Let Go joins a long line of well written, emotionally stunning and intriguingly sensual stories that merge love of family, power of strength and the courage to follow one's heart to happily after. Barbara Freethy keeps getting better.

[Jill Eshenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think one of the saddest days will be when the author stops writing about the Callaways. Each and every story is packed with romance, suspense and amazing and in depth characters and this one is no exception. Annie is a spitfire with enough questions to choke a horse and she of course meets up with the strong silent type hiding many secrets. How she worms her way into his life, brings sunshine to a really dark space is well worth taking time to read. And the ending, what a surprise. While you can read each of the books as a stand alone, I really recommend reading each and every one of them.

[Colleen's Conclusions · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can't Let Go by Barbara Freethy was about Annie Callaway and Griffin. I was actually really looking forward to this book, and it did not disappoint. It had everything a Barbara Freethy Callaway book normally has.

There was mystery, romance, suspense. The action kept me wanting more. I would try to read at least three chapters at a time and that is hard for me to do these days, so it was nice to be reading something like that again. I wasn't really suspecting the ending, and the epilouge was sweet. It was nice seeing the other Callaways from the other books and it made me want to reread the other books again to refresh them. I also liked that this actually had Christmas in it, I was hoping that it would since it was being released around Christmas time.

It was a definite four out of five star read.

I received this book as an ARC.

P.S. That cover is stunning!

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Griffin Hale has a need for keeping his life private, but when he rescues Annie Calloway, his life changes irrevocably. Whether it's for better or worse, he's not sure at first, but he's determined to make the most of it by getting to know Annie better. But when trouble starts brewing, Griffin knows he's going to either have to tell Annie everything about his past or do something to make them go their separate ways. Will Griffin realize that Annie is his one chance at forever after, or will they go their separate ways because of the danger he's determined to keep her from?

This is the first book I've read by Ms. Freethy, and it's a story that has me wanting to read the other books of this series as well as the next one, which features one of Annie's brothers as the hero. Really, this book had everything I enjoy in a romantic suspense such as the brilliant suspense that had me wondering who was coming after the main characters and why once the hero begins to open up to Annie about his past; a good dose of romance that shows how good these two are together and shows how much Griffin needs Annie in his life; incredible main characters that had me captivated by their back stories and everything they go through on their journey to happy ever after; and riveting dialogue that had me wanting to know more about Annie's family and whether the hero and heroine will get their happy ever after, considering all that they go through including Annie's unwillingness to give up on Griffin no matter what they have to face to be together. Will they come out on top against the person or people coming after them?

As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories, especially that of the hero, whose back story took me by surprise because he's keeping a fairly big secret that could get people hurt if he's not careful. Moreover, the heroine is resilient and courageous when it comes to everything she faces because of the hero's past. I also liked how curious the heroine was when it came to life, especially the hero's because he's so mysterious and she wants to get to know him better. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is that she didn't give up on the hero when he kept giving her reasons to walk away.

While the hero, he's been through so much and it's understandable that he's so private when it comes to his life and not letting people get close. Yet, in saying that, I liked that his walls came down for the heroine and that he let her in because Griffin needed Annie just as much as Annie needed him. However, what I liked most of all about the hero was how protective he was of the heroine, which was palpable from the moment they met when he was her knight in shining armor.

Overall, Ms. Freethy has delivered a wonderful and riveting read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance was delightful, as the heroine finds a way to get the hero to realize that they deserve a chance at forever after; and the ending had me worried for the main characters because of the danger they face, but had me loving the way this couple ended up getting their happy ever after. No way was Griffin going to let Annie get away after everything they'd been through together. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up nicely, as Annie deserves all the success and happiness she's found for her life. I would recommend Can't Let Go by Barbara Freethy, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope or books by authors Cristin Harber, Samantha Chase, Julia London and Melissa Foster.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just can't get enough of the Callaways! This was the story of Annie Callaway. She's a middle child who's inquisitive and very chatty. Annie has always felt a little inferior to the other Callaways because she's an artist and most of the family has chosen a career path to serve others. She's trying to find work again after the company she worked for shut down. Annie is subletting her friends apartment on the beach for 6 months while she tries to get past her writers block and come up with a new idea to pitch to a company. One day she decides to face her long time fear of the ocean, because a Callaway doesn't quit. Annie was so proud of herself for this major accomplishment, that when a surfer starts yelling...Sharks!, she panics. Luckily for her, the surfer comes to her rescue and gets her out of the water. Annie realizes this is the surfer she's watched from her apartment. He's always the loner. Choosing to stay away from everyone else. He's also incredibly good looking. As lifeguards and other people arrive and start asking Annie questions, the surfer disappears before she can even thank him.

Griffin Hale is a part owner of a bar called the Depot. He's a very quiet, reserved man who likes his privacy. Annie tracks Griffin down to say Thank You. Griffin doesn't seem too happy about it, but he can't deny the sparks between them. Annie realizes that the bar and the people working there unlock the creativity inside her and she begins to create a story about superheroes. Unfortunately, Annie didn't realize that by being there, she was putting herself in danger and may need her own real life superhero to protect her!

Annie and Griffin's story had so many twists and turns. I never knew what to expect! The chemistry between the two characters was intense but their pasts made it difficult to act on those feelings. I really enjoyed all the humor between all the characters, and the suspense throughout the book.

I would highly recommend this book to everyone! It's a truly great read!

[NICUnurse Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can’t Let Go is book 5 of the Callaway Cousins series (a spinoff of The Callaway series). All of the books are standalones. And since I’ve skipped a few, I can say that they truly are standalone stories.

Annie Callaway is the free-spirited graphic artist in a family of straight-laced over achievers. While she loves her siblings dearly, she feels she’s never quite lived up to their high standards. And she’s lost her job, so it’s a double whammy to her ego and self-esteem. Trying to feel brave, or at least less like a failure, she attempts to overcome her fear of the ocean. And unwittingly is surrounded by sharks. Griffin Hale comes to her rescue and brings her safely to shore. And she can’t stop thinking about the handsome stranger. She sets out to find him to thank him for saving her life and they somehow form a friendship and, eventually, a relationship. But Griffin has secrets and Annie isn’t sure she wants to be a part of the mystery.

I really enjoyed this story because of this unlikely couple. They are opposites in almost every way, yet they compliment each other’s lives well. Until danger comes along. Griffin needs to get his life back and Annie needs to be less fearful. Throw in a bit of a mystery and it was a book I had a hard time putting down. I love mysteries and I love to try to figure out who the bad guy is before the author reveals them. But this author had me stumped!

If you like mysteries that don’t involve a lot of heavy emotions, this book (and both series) are for you. It was a quick, fun read for me.

I give this book 4 stars. It didn’t stay with me long after I reached “The End,” but it was certainly enjoyable and well worth my time. If you enjoy books that are not quite so heavy on the sexy times, I highly recommend Barbara Freethy books.

[Kat · Rating 3 out of 5]

free ebook

she is living in her friends beach apt while he is gone
she looks at the surfers out the window, but she hasnt gone in the ocean since her childhood friend was swept out by a wave, her brothers saved her friend
she decided to go in the ocean and overcome her fear
when she went in the ocean a man on a surfboard was yelling at her, there were sharks, she felt one bump her leg, he grabbed her and put her on his surfboard and saved her
the next day she saw photo of them on line. she found out who he was and went to his bar to thank him. he didnt want thanks and wasnt very nice, but she kept at it. she saw a girl come into the bar with another man and she was escorted upstairs. everyone was very secretive. turned out she was in witness protection. against the bar owners better judgement she kept inserting herself into their lives. they kissed but knew this was not going to develop into a relationship
a man tried to run her and the girl over, but she pushed the girl out of the way
they moved the girl again
her tires were slashed the day she was supposed to go to a job interview so the bar owner took her, they had lunch together. and got a xmas tree for his bar. she helped with the graphics for a non profit he supported

he saw her sketches of him and his friends and got mad
he had lied to her the whole time about who he was, a former cop who told on his partner who was now in prison and going to die
his x girlfriend is after him for revenge as she loved his partner
she set the bar on fire and shot him, but he got out and got the girl out too. the former girlfriend died
they held the fund raiser at the senior center and he got all her relatives to come
he called the co she interviewed at and got her the job
they were in love with each other

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of Can’t Let Go by Barbara Freethy in exchange for an honest review.
Note: this review contains spoilers!
In this book we get to learn more about Annie, the oldest of the three Callaway girls. Unlike her siblings, she hasn’t followed the serve and protect path the others have because she is an artist. Right now she is between jobs, house sitting a beautiful beach side apartment, and trying to get on with her life. She’s kind of in a creative slump right now which isn’t helping.
But Annie is a Callaway and they don’t give up so she decides to conquer her fear of the ocean. Only thing is she didn’t see the sharks. The sharks circling her. But the surfer does see them, paddles over to her, and gets her safely to shore. That was his first mistake.
Because Annie has a curiosity streak a mile wide needs a place to hang since she is in a new location. And the surfer owns this great bar with great food, that’s close to her apartment.
Unfortunately Griffin Hale has secrets. Lots of secrets. Secrets that he doesn’t feel safe sharing with Annie. Then the accidents start. Are they after Megan the stranger staying in the apartment over the bar, or Griffin with all of those secrets of his own, or Annie, or one of the crew members at the bar?
As Annie and Griffin get closer to each other, and secrets are reveled, will they find out who is behind everything before someone is killed? Will they be strong enough to stay together?
You’re going to have to read this great book to find out the answers!
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

[Darcy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annie is an artist who has sublet an apt on the beach in San Clemente. From her balcony she can see the surfers, one surfer is always alone. She has a childhood trauma about the ocean. One day she decides to try to overcome her fear. She’s made it into the ocean and relaxing when she hears someone yelling. It happens to be the lone surfer yelling shark! As she looks around, now frozen in place her leg is bumped. The surfer scoops her up and they make it to the shore.
When she turns around, her nameless hero is gone. She later finds out it’s Griffin Hale, bar owner, lone surfer and her hero.
Griffin has a past life he keeps to himself. He and his partner help out witness protection people when they need a place to stay. So while he is talking to his friend/contact about helping someone else out, I’m walks Annie. He is attracted to her, but doesn’t want the trouble. And she is trouble bec she won’t leave him alone. She is very curious and asks a million questions. As their paths keep crossing they end up forming a friendship.
I liked their journey and how her smile and constant talking helps open him up.
There is quite a bit of drama that surrounds them. I would have given the story a 5 star rating up until close to the end. The climactic part just seemed a little cheesy. I was surprised by the villain, but the word choice and how it played out just didn’t seem to fit with the rest of the story writing.
There is a happy ending.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love visiting the Callaway's! Barbara Freethy has given her readers an extended family that loves, laughs, & plays at 100%. Annie Callaway is a graphic artist without a job & a fear of the ocean. She finally decides to get over it & is enjoying the water when she finds herself in danger. She lets her imagination run loose in regards to her rescuer & forces her way into his life. Why is he so secretive though? Who is Megan?

Griffin Hale dislikes nosy people so why is it so hard to turn away Annie? He's tried to stay out of the limelight & keep private but since he's met her, his picture has been in the paper & she keeps digging into his life. Why can't he push her out of his life like he does everyone else? Where is this danger coming from?

Barbara Freethy manages to strike a perfect balance between the romance & the suspense/mystery in this story. Annie & Griffin don't seem like a good match on paper but they were perfect in this story. Their characters seem like such perfect opposites - one friendly, innocent & open while the other is moody, jaded & closed off. I enjoyed the appearances from other family members & updates on their lives. The supporting characters are colorful & add clarity & depth to Griffin's life & history. This is another terrific story from a great author!

[Dimple · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't Let Go is my first book by Barbara Freethy but it won't be my last! I have to get to know the rest of the Calloway clan!

Annie Calloway is a talented animator and graphic artist but after a recent layoff, she's starting anew while subletting a beautiful beach apartment. She decides to conquer her fear of the ocean as a jump start to her new beginning...then she suffers a shark attack! She's rescued by a handsome surfer who disappears before she can thank him. After tracking him down, she quickly learns the antisocial personality isn't an act. He almost runs her off but after seeing some things in his bar she can't explain, she's too curious to go away quietly. Doesn't hurt that he's hot!

Griffin Hale knew rescuing the woman on the beach would be a hassle but he didn't realize how she'd invade his life. She's beautiful but relentlessly nosy! Sure, he's ridiculously attracted to her but her curiosity threatens the quiet life he's built for himself. He can't have that. Especially when his past comes back to haunt him and she's caught in the middle of the danger and drama.

I really enjoyed this book. Griffin was broody and gruff but it made him endearing to me. Annie's curiosity reminded me of my own, I just have to figure things out. There is heat, humor, and suspense in this book and it'll definitely have me coming back for more!

[Maitri Sheth · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌺 “It felt like the first time and the last time and all the times that would come in between.” Annie, Can’t Let Go


It’s another excellent Callaway novel by Barbara Freethy. It’s the second last book in the Callaway Cousins series. It focuses on Annie Callaway, a graphic artist, who has shifted to San Clemente in hopes of getting rid of her creative block and starting fresh. However, starting fresh isn’t as easy as she gets attacked by a few sharks (literally). Even though the attack wasn’t a great start to this new journey, it connects her with Griffin Hale. Griffin, a bar owner, is the one who saves her from those sharks. Just like one of the super hero’s from her animation world would do. However, he is least interested in being credited for saving her life. He pushes her away, but can’t really do that as Annie can’t let go of his mysterious aura and he can’t seem to push away a real connection he’s formed after ages. The sparks between them are flying all over. However, it’s not easy as it seems because maybe Griffins past seems to be catching up to him. If Annie decides to stick by, she’s in for a ride of a lifetime.

This book is a perfect mix of romance and mystery. The supporting characters are also pretty interesting. It’s a must read, if you’re looking for some romance, drama, suspense, and last but not the least friendship.

Highly recommend reading it 👵🏼

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous book! I love Annie and Griffin’s story. Annie Callaway is a graphic artist and animator who is trying to create the next superhero blockbuster movie. Annie is living by the beach in Southern California. As Annie gets the courage to go in the ocean, she is surrounded by sharks. Luckily a surfer saves her. The surfer is Griffin Hale who owns local bar in a train depot. She finds Griffin at his bar to thank him for saving her. Her creativity was lost until watching the people in the bar. Annie is using the people in this bar to get her creative juices flowing. Griffin is moody and a loner who is attracted to Annie even though he doesn’t want to be. He has secrets that could hurt Annie so he tries to stay away from her. Annie is outgoing, talkative, and stubborn. She is trying to figure Griffin out and is always around where he is.

There are a couple mysteries going on that kept me on my toes trying to figure out what is going on. Ms. Freethy has such a wonderful way of spinning her stories. I didn’t want to put the book down once I started reading it. I loved all the characters in the bar, as well as the growing relationship between Annie and Griffin. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Can't Let Go" is written by Barbara Freethy, and it is part of her Callaways series. It can be read as a stand-alone book. It features Griffin Hale and Annie Callaway.

Right from the get-go, you're going to get hooked! Annie had a bad experience in the ocean when she was younger, so she's now trying to conquer her fear. But what she doesn't realize is that there's a shark near her. Griffin rescues her, but he soon leaves without Annie saying her thanks. She wants to remedy this.

Griffin owns an Irish bar, He's keeping a secret and doesn't like to get too close to people. He takes care of people and protects them when he is asked to. But how will he be able to do that in this case if Annie doesn't want to stay away and keeps asking questions? He soon realizes he likes everything about Annie. It's getting harder for him to keep her away and to hide the truth from her.

Will Griffin and Annie be able to stay safe? Will they get their happily ever after?

This was an extremely well-written, edge of your seats type of book. All of the books I've read from this series are like this. "Can't Let Go" is no different. I honestly think this ranks as one of my top 3 books from Barbara Freethy! Amazing job! This is definitely a must read for all romance readers!

[Jennie Fortna · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC for honest review with no compensation

Can’t Let Go is book 5 in the Callaways Cousins series and #13 in the Callaways series. As always Barbara Freethy has shown us more heartwarming romance and suspense that keeps us on the edge of our seats.

Annie Callaways is a very talented graphic artist and animator who has writer/animator’s block and has moved to Southern California area looking for inspiration when she comes across an old train depot that has been turned into an Irish Pub. When she meets the bartender Griffin Hale something clicks and she starts thinking about superheroes in the underground train depot. Suddenly her hands are moving and she is drawing again. Her imagination is going a hundred miles an hour and the story is coming together but with it comes mystery, suspense, questions, and feelings for the man behind the bar….

Griffin Hale has a past that he wants to keep there but when Annie keeps showing up at his bar with her nosy curiosity and thoughts for her new animation story, he does his best to run her off but Annie has a way of coming back and digging deeper until she ends up in the middle of Griffin’s past…will he be able to keep Annie safe and finally put his past behind him for good or will it end up costing more than either bargained for???

[Lisa Gibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Griffin and Annie's story is full of mystery, lies, danger, fun, and lots of chemistry. Everything I love in a Callaway book.

Griffin leads a mysterious life and Annie can't help but to stick her nose into it.

Griffin and Annie are wonderful together and she pries through his defenses one layer at a time. Annie thinks that she doesn't quite follow in the footsteps of the Callaway family's motto of serving their community but as an artist I believe that she does. She is an artist and while she may not save lives, she does bring joy to people through her art.

Griffin is a loner but he has had to be for the last four years. He keeps secrets that eventually spill over into his new life and threaten all that he has worked for as well as threatening his budding relationship with Annie.

I didn't want the story to end and found myself wanting to know more about Vinnie, Griffin's business partner and friend. I am sure there is a story there. It was fun to catch up with Hunter, Kate, Devin, Mia, Jeremy and Ashlyn, as they all made appearances in the book.

I couldn't put this book down and should have known to start it when I could finish it in one sitting! I can't want to see what Hunter's story is as that is the next one in the Callaway cousins series. I am hooked.

[Susie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another installment of the Callaway series. This story is about Annie who is an artist and not like the rest of her siblings and cousins who are firefighters and police officers. She's a true free spirit, going through a tough time in her life trying to find her way after losing her job. A friend offers her his apartment while he's away and she takes the opportunity to get away from everything because she's developed a block on her talents. She finds an awakening when she meets Griffin who is a bar owner. who let's say helps her when she's in a little distress. I don't want to put a spoiler in here! They become friendly much to the resistant of Griffin. Griffin wants no one to get close to him and tenacious Annie wants to find out why. This story has so much suspense and intrigue and by far is the one of the best Callaway series books I have read. The only problem was that I started this book on a Sunday late afternoon and could not put it down until I finished! So I did not get much sleep that night. I received an ARC copy for my honest review. Love the book! Love the author!!!

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't Let Go is an excellent addition to the Callaway series. After Griffin saves Annie from sharks, she finds she can't stay away from him. He's closed off and mysterious, which draws her even more to him.

While Annie is keeping why she left her job a secret from her family, Griffin is keeping a much larger secret from everyone except his business partner, Vinnie. I loved how Annie's curiosity gets the better of her and she sticks her nose into Griffin's business, even when it's clear he doesn't want her to know anything. She doesn't let it stop her, and her persistence both annoys and amuses Griffin. He starts off a bit gruff and unapproachable, but with Annie's determination, he is able to thaw and finds himself enjoying interacting more with people.

This can be read as a standalone. There are a couple of scenes with other members of Annie's family, and while it was great to catch up with what was going on in their lives, it isn't necessary to have read the previous books. If you haven't read them, though, I do recommend doing so because it's a great series.

**An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review**

[Erin Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Star Review of Can't Let Go (The Callaways # 13) by Barbara Freethy

This was a new author to me and I have no idea why I have not heard or read her before and although this is part of a series, I didn’t have any problems following.This is the story of Griffin Hale and Annie Calloway.
This is a romantic suspense novel and was extremely well written. The characters were intriguing and I loved how they appeared to be the total opposite of each other but were still attracted.
However all is not as it seems at Griffin’s bar and of course this attracts Annie’s attention and she is determined to investigate. The suspense began in chapter one and built throughout the book and I have to say Ms. Freethy kept us guessing with the build up. Of course Annie has no idea that her investigation will lead her in to danger and Griffin will have no choice but to come to her rescue.
This is a well written, romantic and at times emotional read that held my attention from the start. I enjoyed Barbara Freethy’s writing style and will be looking to read more books in this series.

[Dianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Callaways are back. This is Annie’s story. Annie is an artist and animator who is in a slump so off she goes to California where she subleases an apartment from her friend, which apartment is right on the ocean. Annie has a fear of the ocean due to something that happened to her friend when she was younger. She now has the opportunity to come up with a superhero and start a new animation. She decides to tackle her fear of the water and goes swimming, Little does she know but there is danger in the water. In comes Griffin Hale, who becomes her super hero. Griffin is very moody, but the sparks fly between the two. Love the chemistry that Barbara creates between her characters. You gave the outgoing very opinionated Annie and the moody, mysterious Griffin, but it works. Love that the other Callaways make an appearance in the book. This has it all, mystery, suspense and lots and lots of romance. This is a sweet fun lovable story. Cannot go wrong with Barbara’s books (in my opinion!!). I recommend this to all.

[Glenys Broxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book from Barbara, we are taken back to the Callaway cousins, another early meet for Annie and Griffin though breif, Annie a graphic artist looking for materials for a new film, soon finds a mystery to solve, about a man who rescued her from sharks, she soon finds she is drawn to this mystery man, and needs to find out more about him, unaware she is treading on dangerous ground, I could have gladly punched him on several occasions, Annie a chatter box and Griffin a quiet moody soul with a big heart,, it wasn’t long before the walls started to come down and the raunchy bit arrived,then the danger, got me so tied up couldn’t put it down, I love the way Barbara draws you into the book and teases you along the way with snippets of information, keeping you intrigued, will they? won’t they? then the danger bringing them ever closer together, of course they do then the happy ending, I cried tears of joy, very clever storyline loved it, can’t wait for the next book, love the Callaways

[Gwen S. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Griffin and Annie Survive Paige! 3.25*****

Annie Callaway, an out of work yet talented, homeless, graphic artist, finds herself in limbo. She was house sitting for a friend and substitute teaching for another’s College Art class. Tackling her childhood fear of water with the ‘never give up Callaway courage’, she plunged into the Southern California waters and started swimming again, but this was short lived as a surfer yelled, “Sharks!”, and rescued her. There commenced her dalliance with mysterious Griffin Hale, and his past finally catching up with him and Annie as collateral damage.

Well written, loved the Callaways and their family dynamics and support for each other. I was surprised initially by Griffin’s reaction to Annie’s animation of him and The Depot employees, when he, just not only lied but physically endangered her and his employees. But thanks to Vinnie’s down to earth view, he, Griffin/Michael rectified his thinking. His dank moods were too over top at times, compared to Sunshine Annie!
Another HEA ending!!

[Perrin Larton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once more we’re heading ‘home’ to visit with The Callaway’s. What a fantastic group. Loving, selfless, and a family we all want to claim for our own.

This is Annie Callaway’s story. Annie, ‘the middle’, the non-stop talker, the artsy one, the one who feels she’s not ‘brave’ enough, but soldiers on nevertheless. It is also Griffin Hale’s story. Griffin, a loner, stoic, quiet, but needs to help and protect his ‘people’.

Annie and Griffin meet when her fear of the ocean intersects with his afternoon of surfing. When he leaves without letting Annie thank him, she tracks him down and this book is off to the races!
I love the way Barbara leads you down the path, making you think you know where the story is going, then, BOOM, it goes another, much more satisfying way!

Thank you for another look into the Callaway family. Although this is a series, and you won’t want to miss even one, this book, and all the others are standalones.

[Gwen Larson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annie Calloway doesn’t feel that she’s Calloway enough. After all, she doesn’t have her family’s urge to serve and protect. Griffin Hale has his own very sound reasons for being a loner. But when his natural instinct takes over and his and Annie’s paths collide, watch out — there’s plenty of excitement, sexual tension and suspense to keep you turning the pages.

Like all of Barbara Freethy’s Callaway titles, CAN’T LET GO can stand alone. But you will enjoy it if you’ve read others in the series to understand the Callaway dynamics.

I loved seeing Annie’s and Griffin’s secrets revealed and watching Annie discover she’s got more Callaway in her than she thought. There were enough twists and turns to keep me riveted.

*I received a free advance reading copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great addition to the Callaway series. Annie Callaway is figuring out her next step in life and is saved from a shark attack by secretive Griffin Hale. Griffin not only intrigues her, but helps cure her writer's block and he and the people she meet at his bar inspire her next graphic design project. However, events conspire that put everyone in danger. Fighting the unknown enemy and their attraction, Griffin and Annie grow closer while trying to stay safe.

I loved the supporting characters in this book, especially Vinnie, and the Depot had such a great vibe and atmosphere, I think Freethy could write an entire series around it alone. I'm curious to read Hunter's story and hope we haven't seen the last of Megan. Part of the Callaway series, it takes place away from San Francisco and can easily be read as a standalone.

I received a review copy from the author.

[Book Addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Freethy has given us another great book about the Callaway Family. I have loved all of the books about the family and seem to never tire of reading more. It is always great to get a new family story and catch up on the other family members too.
This book has it all. There is suspense, mystery and romance. This one kept you guessing what was going to happen and who was doing it right up till the end. It was so great to finally get Annie’s story and to meet Griffin. The chemistry between them was off the charts. I love how different they were but still so much alike deep down. This books also shows how family and friends come together to support and protect each other.
I am looking forward to more Callaway family books.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.